SPRINGFIELD – A measure from State Senator Linda Holmes (D-Aurora) would require more rapid response by the courts and law enforcement in issuing stalking, domestic violence and civil no contact orders. House Bill 3396 passed the Illinois House on concurrence today.

“If someone is being stalked, they deserve immediate response from the courts and law enforcement,” Holmes said. “A no-contact order needs to be moved swiftly from the courts to law enforcement no matter what day or time it is granted when someone’s safety and peace of mind are being threatened.”

House Bill 3396 changes the Stalking No Contact Order Act, the Civil No Contact Order Act and the Illinois Domestic Violence Act to provide that when an emergency no contact order is granted on a court holiday or evening, the court will immediately file a certified copy with law enforcement officials who maintain State Police records. Currently, those orders aren’t filed until the next court day, possibly delaying relief for victims.

The bill makes the same changes in all protective order acts so that there is procedural consistency among the three orders.

A no contact order makes it illegal to contact the victim without their permission. If the order can be enforced more quickly it may relieve the associated fear and distress sooner.

House Bill 3396 passed both chambers on bipartisan votes and will now head to the governor’s desk.